Comprehensive stadium 3D scanning requires multiple scanning technologies, each optimized for different areas and levels of detail within the venue.
Terrestrial Laser Scanners (Interior Precision):
- Trimble X12: Survey-grade scanner, ±2mm accuracy, 2.2 million points/sec. Used for structural elements, mechanical systems, detailed areas requiring engineering-grade precision. Placed on a tripod, each scan captures a 360° point cloud.
- Leica RTC360: Portable scanner, ±1.9mm accuracy, 2 million points/sec. Lightweight alternative for tight spaces, rapid setup with automated registration.
- RIEGL VZ-600i: Long-range scanner for stadium exteriors and large open spaces where extended range (up to 600m) is needed.
Mobile Mapping Systems (Interior Speed):
- NavVis VLX3: Wearable mobile mapper, ±5mm accuracy, captures 200,000+ sqft per day. The operator walks through concourses, seating bowls, and large open areas while the system continuously scans. This dramatically accelerates capture of repetitive spaces compared to tripod-based scanning.
Drone Systems (Exterior):
- DJI Matrice 4 Enterprise + Zenmuse L3: LiDAR sensor for roof geometry, structural elements, and site topography. Captures elevation data and structural geometry inaccessible from ground level.
- DJI M4E + Zenmuse P1: 45MP full-frame photogrammetry camera for high-resolution aerial imagery and orthomosaic maps of the venue exterior and surroundings.
Survey Control:
- GNSS receivers: Establish a survey control network of precisely measured reference points throughout the venue. All scan data — terrestrial, mobile, and aerial — is registered to this common coordinate system.
How They Work Together: A typical stadium scan deploys all technologies. Terrestrial scanners handle precision areas (mechanical rooms, structural connections, detailed architectural elements). The NavVis VLX3 rapidly captures long concourses, seating sections, and back-of-house corridors. Drone systems capture the exterior envelope and site context. The survey control network ties everything together into a unified, accurate 3D dataset.
Explore our stadium scanning services to learn more about our approach.